Looking for a big prospect with good athleticism? What about a power forward who can run the floor like a guard? How about another that is always productive and in attack mode? Simi Shittu can do all of that.

At 6-foot-9, Shittu has always been one of the top players in the country, but adding more versatility to his game during the Nike EYBL and Peach Jam, especially using his strength on the block a little more, has made him even more dangerous.

After the shocking offer to the non-ranked 6’10 power forward from Cincinnati - Jaxon Hayes, it looks like John and his team have shifted their attention to fully recruiting Hayes instead of Shittu.

According to the Lexington Herald Leader, John went to Vermont to watch Shittu practice with his teammates last week. Allegedly, it was a known that they’d set an official visit to Kentucky while Calipari was there. After Cal left Vermont, no visit was set up.

The day after Cal visited Shittu, he shocked everyone and offered the big man from Cincinnati. This definitely turned the tides in the recruitment of Shittu. The Herald Leader also reached out to Shittu’s coach trying to get more context from the situation. Six days after they texted him, he responded by saying “Shittu has still not set a visit with Kentucky.”

Simi Shittu proud to receive his McDonald's All American jersey and represent Canada

...The game tips on March 28 at Phillips Arena in Atlanta.

“This has been a dream of mine since I was a kid,” said Shittu, a Vanderbilt signee. “I just can’t believe that now I officially have the jersey and everything. It’s an honor.”

Shittu said he felt a particular sense of pride making the game as a Canadian.

Shittu and Montverde Academy (Fla.) guard R.J. Barrett will be the first Canadian’s in the game since Trey Lyles suited up in 2014. It’s also the first time since first time since 2010 (Cory Joseph and Tristan Thompson) that two Canadians made the game.